Hector Acosta El Torito

Héctor Acosta, first introduced to the tropical music world as vocalist for the famous Toros Band, first found his voice in church. As a member of the choir at San Antonio de Paula Church, Acosta discovered amid the ritual and incense his love for song. In 1982, having sung for years only inside the walls of the church, Acosta learned of a singing competition sponsored by a local radio station. Sneaking off for the qualification rounds paid off, as he ultimately took first place. Once the doors were opened to public performance, the young talent flourished, and he participated in a number of local groups who played clubs and festivals in the surrounding area. In addition to singing, Héctor played a variety of instruments, acting as bass player for the popular Bonao band Los Gentiles. After a 1989 performance with the group, Acosta was introduced to Gerardo Diaz, whom he had impressed with his improvisational ability and stage presence. Diaz was manager for the renown Toros Band. He made Acosta a life-changing offer, and by 1991 Acosta's voice was heard all over Dominican radio. Los Toros Band's record Se Soltaron became a national hit, featuring the young and talented Héctor Acosta. The singer enjoyed success and widespread acclaim with the group, enjoying a number of hits during his years as a member, including the landmark album Raices. In 2006, after 15 years under the wings of his artistic mentors Gerardo and Juan Pablo Diaz, Acosta left the group to form his own orchestra. His premier release as a solo artist came in October of the same year. Sigo Siendo Yo generated radio hits such as "Me Voy" and "Primavera Azul," which showed up on U.S. and Dominican tropical music charts. Acosta performs all over the states in dance halls, festivals, and clubs alongside some of merengue's most popular artists. ~ Evan C. Gutierrez, Rovi